Joshua 5:1
And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, which were on the side of Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which were by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.
Joshua 5:1 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Joshua in the Bible describes a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites. After the children of Israel crossed the Jordan River, the surrounding kings of the Amorites and Canaanites heard of the miraculous event. The drying up of the waters of the Jordan clearly demonstrated the power and favor of the Lord upon the Israelites. The news of this event struck fear in the hearts of the kings, causing their spirits to fail them. The verse highlights the fear that the surrounding nations felt towards the people of Israel, recognizing the supremacy of the God they served. Ultimately, this verse illustrates the divine intervention that marked the Israelites' journey to conquer the Promised Land, showcasing the power of faith and obedience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the power and sovereignty of the LORD over all nations. The drying up of the Jordan River symbolizes the miraculous intervention of God on behalf of the Israelites as they journeyed to the Promised Land. The reaction of the Canaanite and Amorite kings demonstrates their fear and awe of the LORD's mighty deeds. Their hearts melting and spirits failing indicate the defeat and despair they felt in the face of God's miraculous intervention. This event serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His people and His ability to overcome any obstacle in their path. Through this display of power, God not only demonstrates His strength but also fulfills His promises to the Israelites, proving that He is the one true God worthy of reverence and worship.
Joshua 5:1 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, that were beyond the Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, that were by the sea, heard how that Jehovah had dried up the waters of the Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.
World English Bible
When all the kings of the Amorites, who were beyond the Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, who were by the sea, heard how Yahweh had dried up the waters of the Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we had passed over, their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.
Douay-Rheims
Now when all the kings of the Amorrhites, who dwelt beyond the Jordan, westward, and all the kings of Chanaan, who possessed the places near the great sea, had heard that the Lord had dried up the waters of the Jordan before the children of Israel, till they passed over, their heart failed them, and there remained no spirit in them, fearing the coming in of the children of Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Nowe when all the Kings of the Amorites, which were beyond Iorden Westward, and all the Kinges of the Canaanites which were by the Sea, heard that the Lord had dried vp the waters of Iorden before the children of Israel vntill they were gone ouer, their heart fainted: and there was no courage in them any more because of the children of Israel.